The mood in New York was quite somber today, as President Obama opened the dedication of the 9/11 Memorial Museum. Even the weather today was fitting for the occasion with dreary skies and drizzling rain.

I’m always cognizant of my surroundings in lower Manhattan and try to be mindful that individuals passing by, may very well be the loved ones of 9/11 victims. Today, there were indeed numerous groups of loved ones, friends, and service men affected by the 9/11 attacks.

The dedication was held inside the museum and therefore, it closed off to the general public. However, large crowds still gathered around the museum and Freedom Tower. Every news crew in town was reporting outside the museum and the police presence was tremendous. The 9/11 Memorial Museum has been somewhat controversial, especially the location of the 8,000 unidentified remains that will be housed underground and the $24 admission charge. Families were holding banners stating their views, while others quietly expressed their remembrance wearing construction hats sketched with fallen victims.

The opening of the 9/11 Memorial Museum is certainly bringing back memories of an extremely tragic day in our nation’s history. Even after thirteen years, the rebuilding is still underway. Despite these hard truths, there is symbolism in the most unexpected places. Beautiful flowers growing near the Freedom Tower NYPD road blocks. Signs of life. A true symbol of our nation’s resilient spirit. May we never forget…